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Just Stop.... and Breathe!
I begin with words from Luke 21: 25-26
25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
34 “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, 35 like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place and to stand before the Son of Man.”
One of the more humbling things about getting older is realizing that you’ve started to embrace things you used to make fun of. Things like increasing the font size on your cell phone, taking longer to get up and down the stairs, and going to bed at 9:30.
Ten years ago, if you told me I would be doing meditation as a place to find quiet from all the noise in my own head, I would have laughed in your face.
When I started meditation, concentrating on breathing in and breathing out seemed absurd. After all, I have been doing just that all of my life – without having to give it a single thought.
But at this moment in time, as we try to catch our breath with all that in transpiring around the world and within our own congregation, I find myself becoming particularly interested in the word” breath” – in a Biblical sense.
I am bringing this up because there have been several times over the past week where anger has found me struggling to just breathe.
Most of you know that I am a “lectionary reflector” because, week after week, you sit patiently and listen to my thoughts on the readings prescribed for that Sunday. But, today, I am consumed with the opening apocalyptic thoughts which keep rolling through my head.
Apocalyptic writings tend to bring fear to most people. But did you know that their original intention was just the opposite? They were originally written to bring comfort and calm to those living in tumultuous times. To help them regulate their thoughts and, believe it or not, calm their anxious breathing.
The verses quoted in the opening are significant, not because we seem to be living in some apocalyptic times, but because of the way our breath can be slowed up or caught in our throats when we read them.
But breath has played an important part in our faith tradition. God breathed into dust to create human beings. Ezekiel was given the breath to breathe upon dried bones, bringing them dancing back to life. And, of course, how when Jesus died on the cross it was his last and final breath in which he gave up his spirit and then, locked in fear in the upper room, he breathed on his disciples and said “receive the Holy Spirit”.
So, in the opening text, when it says People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, the following thought came to mind.
This passage is an exact description of how so may of us are feeling at this moment. We are breathing the life out of ourselves from fear and foreboding over what is to come. A future, over which we have little control - is turning us into people who can forget to breathe.
I am afraid of so many things…. being left alone, getting sick, the political climate, active shooter situations which are becoming more common right here in our own cities, my grandchildren making quick choices which might have lasting implications…. you name it. They all clamor for space in my head in the middle of the night.
But, in the moment of quiet breaths, none of those things (with the exception of shootings which I am just hearing has occurred at a 4th of July parade in Chicago) are happening at this moment of breathing in and breathing out.
So, I invite you, to consider what are you afraid of? I mean, really afraid of.
And to think – is any of that happening right now in this moment.
Whatever you fear, I want to give you this apocalyptic message – whatever your fears are – they may be real, but they are not the most real thing.
Now, I ask you to remember that Jesus said “do not be afraid…do not worry about what the future holds”, or do not miss out on what is most real in this moment. I believe Jesus was inviting us into what we now call mindfulness, inviting us to be present to our breath in the present moment because God is always present to us in the present moment.
But I am not a fool, I may still get sick, or my grandchildren might screw up in a way that forever changes their lives. Things may very well continue to get worse, especially for those who have the least amount of power in our current world.
And, faith doesn't mean that the bad things we fear won’t happen in the future, faith just means that in the midst of all of it, we have access to God in this moment and this breath. We get to slow down and see a hundred tiny beautiful gifts in every moment –things like the particular green of the leaves right now, the flowers blooming in the front yard, the sound of baby birds as they start to leave the nest and, yes, the taste of bread and wine which we shared last Sunday.
So, when the fear and foreboding of what may come starts to shorten your breath, try to concentrate on what is so much bigger – the goodness of God in the stories of our ancestors and a faith which has endured and prevailed.
And you can return over and over to this as many times as you need to - the knowledge that God is already present in the future you are worried about and none of the things you fear about the future are as real as this present moment.
This moment, as you sit reading, this is all we have. The air you are breathing right now, the room you are in right now, the people you are with right now. Here and now Christ is among us bringing peace. He is still breathing on us and saying receive the holy spirit.
Let not fear and foreboding keep us from breathing that in.
My meditation mantra is “God breathe in me the breath I breathe”. I share it with you and hope it will be calming.
Amen
Pastor Beryl
The inspiration for this week’s blog comes from Nadia Boltz-Weber (an ordained Lutheran Pastor, founder of House for All Sinners & Saints in Denver, CO) and Richard Rhor, OFM (an American Franciscan priest and writer on spirituality based in Albuquerque, New Mexico.) I have been following their writings for about nine years now. They may be a little “out there” for some Christians, but they tell it like it is, in a world and time which is in dire need of hearing some truths.
Trusting in the Wisdom of the Universe
I think we can all agree that leaving the comfort of what we have known is difficult.
Southwest United (formerly Crawford Park United) has been a home away from home for so many years now. Even though the original members may be living in the places of our hearts, the thought of losing that home is indeed difficult to face, let alone accept.
As your Pastor, my own future uncertain, I turned to a much-loved book and wish to share with you a story of what some of you might call blind faith. But that faith is what keeps me going, especially in times of uncertainty. It has sustained me through many difficult times in my life, and I hope you too will see both the wisdom and the acceptance in what I am about to share.
Leaving the Nest*
The eagle pair had built their nest high on the mountain craigs. First they made a sturdy foundation of twigs and small branches on the bare rock. Then they worked a more finely woven layer inside. And then the mother laid her eggs, and brooded over them until they were ready to hatch.
When the tiny chicks hatched, they nestled in the warmth and the comfort of the feather-lined nest. And time passed and they grew bigger, and were ready to leave the nest and learned to fly and make their own lives.
One by one the small eagles were persuaded to leave the nest. But one was reluctant to go. The nest was so comfortable and he really wanted to live there forever.
So, the parent eagles tried to persuade him to move out. First, they removed the cosy layer of feathers. But still, he would not leave. Then, they removed the layer of fine grass and twigs. But still, he would not leave. And then, in desperation, they removed the entire outer nest, leaving him perched on the bare rock. But still, he would not fly.
And finally, they took their fledging to the edge of the high craig and pushed him off….and then they flew close below him, to catch him, lest he fall.
It has always been my belief that when we are pushed to the edge and there is nothing else to hold on to, one of two things will happen, either there will be angels to catch us, or we will be given wings and taught how to fly.**
As we face the reality that we may have to leave the safety and comfort of the nest at SouthWest, I say to you brothers and sisters, do not fear, for “he will raise you up on eagle's wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand”.***
Pastor Beryl, DLM
*One Hundred More Wisdom Stories, Margaret Silf
** unknown
**8 Psalm 91, VU page 808
Summer Solstice 2022
I have long held an interest in my Celtic roots and alternative forms of worship, from many traditions.
The Summer Solstice, an ancient Pagan celebration known as Beltane, is a day which is also celebrated by many who embrace the Christian tradition.
Should you wish to acknowledge the good earth and the changing of the seasons on June 21st, I offer prayers and readings which might speak to the Celt in you, and praise God for creation and all her gifts.
Light your favourite candle while you sit and spend a moment or two in quietness. Consider winter's chill when all was still, with seed and plant lying dormant, followed by the rising sun and warming air of Spring, green shoots emerging, leaves unfurling, blossom shouting its praise to the Creator. And now the beauty of a summer's day.
(Silent moment for reflection)
Prayer:
God of winter's cold, of clear sky and frozen river,
God of spring’s warmth, April showers, waking life,
God of summer pasture and mountain stream,
God of root and shoot, of harvest to come,
I praise your Holy name.
Creator God,
Forgive my moments of ingratitude,
the spiritual blindness that prevents me from appreciating the wonder that is this world the endless cycle of nature of life and death and rebirth.
Forgive me for taking without giving, reaping without sowing.
Open my eyes to see my lips to praise and my hands to share.
May my feet tread lightly on the path I tread and my footsteps be worthy of following for they lead to you.
(silent moment for reflection)
The warmth of the sun's embrace, the gentle breeze swept in by incoming tide, the rhythm of seasons of new birth, death and recreation.
All these speak so clearly of your love, your power and your beauty.
All are expressions of your creativity and, more importantly, of yourself.
As an artist might share his personality within each brushstroke,
so within the myriad colours of a butterfly's wing you share the exuberance of your love.
(silent moment for reflection)
That I can glimpse you within creation is a beautiful thought
but also tells me that you desire to be seen to be found and known.
Open my eyes, Lord, as I walk through this world, feel the wind and sunshine
see the majesty of creation unfolding before my eyes.
Help me to see you
Psalm 19
1 The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
2 Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge.
3 There is no speech or language
where their voice is not heard.
4 Their voice goes out into all the earth,
their words to the ends of the world.
In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun,
5 which is like a bridegroom coming forth from his pavilion,
like a champion rejoicing to run his course.
6 It rises at one end of the heavens
and makes its circuit to the other;
nothing is hidden from its heat.
(A time of intercession with The Lord’s Prayer)
God of renewal, of life and death, rebirth
God of promise, of all beginnings, and all endings
God of hope, of new growth and harvest
Renew my heart and mind
(silent moment for reflection)
Closing prayer:
I bless you,
God of Seed and Harvest
And I bless all people
That the beauty of this world
And the love that created it
Might be expressed though our lives
And be a blessing to others
Now and always
AMEN
Pastor Beryl, DLM
The Holy Spirit
As we continue into the Season of Pentecost, there is so much to be said about the Holy Spirit, “the helper”, promised to the disciples and to us by Jesus before his departure.
For many years, I have been fascinated by the biblical writings about Spirit, and the thought that there would be something within to “tap into” in times of confusion and doubt.
While at St. Andrew’s College in Saskatoon for the three-year learning circles required
for the DLM stream of ministry, many of my fellow students invited me to follow the daily meditations of Father Richard Rohr, an American Franciscan priest, working out of the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Hereunder are some of his thoughts which are being shared in this Season of Pentecost.
The Immensity Within
Father Richard describes the Holy Spirit as the loving immensity of God’s presence within us:
On one level, soul, consciousness, love, and the Holy Spirit can all be thought of as one and the same. Each of these point to something that is larger than the self, shared with God, and even eternal. That’s what Jesus means when he speaks of “giving” us the Spirit or sharing his consciousness with us. One whose soul is thus awakened actually has “the mind of Christ” (see 1 Corinthians 2:10–16). That does not mean the person is psychologically or morally perfect, but such a transformed person does see things in a much more expanded and compassionate way. Paul calls it “a spiritual revolution of the mind” (Ephesians 4:23, Jerusalem Bible)—and it is!
Jesus calls this implanted Spirit the “Advocate” who is “with you and in you,” makes you live with the same life that he lives, and unites you to everything else (John 14:16–20). He goes on to say that this “Spirit of truth” will “teach you everything” and “remind you of all things” (John 14:26) as if you already knew this somehow. Talk about being well-equipped from a Secret Inner Source! It really is too good to believe!
There is an Inner Reminder and an Inner Rememberer (see John 14:26, 16:4) who holds together all the disparate and fragmented parts of our lives, who fills in all the gaps, who owns all the mistakes, who forgives all the failures—and who loves us into an ever-deeper life. This is the job description of the Holy Spirit, who is the spring that wells up within us (John 7:38–39)—and unto eternal time. This is the breath that warms and renews everything (John 20:22). These are the eyes that see beyond the momentary shadow and disguise of things (John 9); these are the tears that wash and cleanse the past (Matthew 5:4). And better yet, they are not only our tears but are actually the very presence and consolation of God within us (2 Corinthians 1:3–5).
You must contact this Immensity! You must look back at what seems like your life from the place of this Immensity. You must know that this Immensity is already within you. The only thing separating you from such Immensity is your unwillingness to trust such an utterly free grace, such a completely unmerited gift.
WOW! Don’t you want and need this in your own life? I know I certainly do!
This will be my last blog on Pentecost and the Spirit so I would also like to leave you with the words of my all-time favorite gospel hymn. It has been my personal anthem since 2007. Read the words, enjoy them. Sing out loud if you know the tune!
Come Holy Spirit
Chorus
Come Holy Spirit, I need You
Come sweet Spirit, I pray
Come in Your strength and Your power
Come in Your own gentle way
Verse 1
Come as a wisdom to children,
Come as new sight to the blind
Come Lord as strength to my weakness,
Take me, soul, body and mind
Verse 2
Come as a rest to the weary
Come as a balm for the sore
Come as a dew to my dryness
Fill me with joy evermore
Verse 3
Come like a spring in the desert
Come to the withered of soul
O let Your sweet healing power
Touch me and make me whole
© 1964 William J. Gaither, Inc. (Admin. by Gaither Copyright Management)
How Do You See Jesus?
How do you see Jesus? So many questions, so many answers.
As we celebrate Pentecost this coming Sunday, we also celebrate the birth of the church and, lately, I have been thinking about “church” and Jesus. I have been asking myself some hard questions.
One of the biggest questions I have been asked lately is “why do I stay a Christian”?
If I had been required to answer that question even 15 years ago, I would have said because “the church, as a family, with its tradition and ritual, has been my rock through some very difficult times”.
With so much in the news about the harm the Christian churches have done over many, many years in the area of sexual abuse, condoned and hidden within its ranks, and now the spotlight on the cultural genocide imposed by colonialism and the residential school system, I now realize that I have stayed a Christian because of Jesus.
So, who is Jesus really and who has Jesus been for me? I would have to say that staying a Christian, especially today, is about staying in and with and through the man who defied the abuse of power, who would not bow to empire, who drew no boundaries and welcomed all, who spoke up when injustice was condoned or tolerated, who promoted love and peace and yes, even healing…….so many things……
So, that brings me to another question for those who may be asking themselves who Jesus is?
Has your Jesus stayed the same for you throughout your Christian journey?
For me personally, Jesus has not stayed the same through my whole life’s journey. He is not that blond haired blue-eyed angelic babe in a manger of my Childhood Christmases. He is not that meek lamb led to the slaughter on Good Friday. In fact, he was a man of change, a man with the courage to take on the status quo and question those who wielded power with abuse. He was and is so many things we may yet discover.
And so, I’ve had to be open to understanding that, even though there’s one verse in Hebrews that says “Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever” [Hebrews 13:8] Jesus has not stayed the same because I have not stayed the same yesterday, today, and forever.
The church has not stayed the same yesterday, today, and forever.
I realize that, in a very real way, Jesus changes because Jesus changes for the world.
Jesus changes for the institutions of faith, for the church….and if we are unable to let the end of one image emerge for us and a new image of Jesus be born, we are probably in a pretty static place in our own faith.
In her book Freeing Jesus, (Note 1) the author describes our relationship with Jesus as a dynamic opportunity to see God and ourselves perpetually anew – like our celebration of Pentecost don’t you think?
Staying in and with and through Jesus does not mean getting the right answers from a creed, or remembering the points of doctrine from a sermon because, if that is the plan, we probably do not truly know Jesus.
“Who are you, Lord?” [Acts 9:3–5] is the question of a lifetime, to be asked and experienced over and over again. That query frees Jesus to show up in our lives over and over again, and entails remembering where we first met, how we struggled with each other along the road, and what we learned in the process. (Note 2).
So, welcome Pentecost, welcome wind and flames and the stirring of Spirit!
In Peace
Pastor Beryl, DLM
Planting Seeds as a Spiritual Experience
This past Monday, May 24th, was not only Victoria Day but also the traditional day to start the summer garden. This year, I am planting a Three Sisters Garden.
So, who are the Three Sisters? The crops of corn, beans, and squash are known as the Three Sisters. For centuries these three crops have been the center of Native American agriculture and culinary traditions. It is for good reason as these three crops complement each other in the garden as well as nutritionally.
Corn provides tall stalks for the beans to climb so that they are not out-competed by sprawling squash vines. Beans provide nitrogen to fertilize the soil while also stabilizing the tall corn during heavy winds. Beans are nitrogen-fixers meaning they host rhizobia on their roots that can take nitrogen, a much-needed plant nutrient, from the air and convert it into forms that can be absorbed by plant roots. The large leaves of squash plants shade the ground which helps retain soil moisture and prevent weeds.
These three crops are also at the center of culinary traditions and complement one another as well. A diet of corn, beans, and squash is complete and balanced. Corn provides carbohydrates and the dried beans are rich in protein and have amino acids absent from corn. Squash provides different vitamins and minerals than corn and beans. These three crops are also important because they can all be dried and used for food year-round. These traits are less important today, but were important in the past which led to their significance as the major cultivated foods.
The tradition of calling these crops the "Three Sisters" originated with the Haudenosaunee, pronounced Ho-deh-no-shaw-nee. Also known as the Iroquois, Haudenosaunee occupy the regions around the Great Lakes in the Northeastern United States and Canada. All three types of seeds are planted together in the same mound in the Haudenasaunee planting method. The elevated mound assists with drainage and avoids water logging of the plant roots which is important in this region that receives abundant rainfall in the summer.
So, why would I do this? Well, the convoluted answer would be: I know full well that any yield of corn, beans of squash will be quickly picked over by the ever-present families of squirrels, (grey, black red), the chipmunks and of course the shy rabbit family, who competes nightly against the fat and lazy racoons of the area, not to mention my generational and extended crow families who I am sure love fresh corn.
The simple answer is, as mentioned, for me planting is a spiritual experience and in the Three Sisters, I see The Trinity, The One in Three, The Father, Son and Spirit. The basis of our united Christian belief: God eternally exists as Father, Son and Spirit.
This is Holy mystery, and no one fully understands this but when we say these things, we mean that the Father is God, the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God, but they are not three gods but only one God. The Father is not the Son, the Son is not the Spirit, the Spirit is not the Father, but each is God individually and yet they are together the one true God of the Bible.
So, I plant The Three Sisters, seeing therein the Three in one. There is no division, no hierarchy, but a sharing of power for each seed supports and needs the others to thrive and grow into their true potential.
And so, it is with us. We too must depend upon Father, Son and Spirit in our lives to live out the life-giving persons we were created to be. Growing in love, and nourishing our brothers and sisters as we journey through our own life circle.
Happy gardening, whatever you choose to plant.
I will keep you posted on the progress of my Trinity.
In Peace
Pastor Beryl, DLM